America's Most Scenic Roads

Highway 2, Nebraska

Sandhills (grass-covered sand dunes) make up nearly one-fourth of Nebraska, undulating in slow hypnotic curves as far as the eye can see. Take Highway 2 for expansive views of the Great Plains and pastureland that’s more than twice the size of Rhode Island, but populated by only 12,000 souls.

Stop: The sand dunes are smack in the middle of the Great Plains Migratory Flyway; look out for cranes at the Nebraska Nature & Visitor Center. (nebraskanature.org; $3.50)